Chronic Pain & Life

Have you ever experienced a migraine? What about a severe stress headache? Both can bring you to your knees can't they? Do you know what triggers a migraine for you? How do you handle the migraine? What do you do for you? Do you turn to your prescription medications seeking relief? Do you close yourself off in a dark room? What do you do for you?

A comment was left on the Facebook page regarding migraines and how to survive them so today I'd thought I'd share some information about some home remedies you may find helpful. Please remember this information is shared for your personal entertainment and is not meant to replace the conversation with your doctor. If you have questions about what you read here please talk to your doctor.

​If you live with migraines...have a plan for how you will deal with them, learn what triggers them, learn what soothes you, keep a migraine diary to share with your doctor...and please take good care of you.

Home Remedies for Migraines

Cool It DownPut an ice pack on your forehead, scalp, or neck to get pain relief. Experts aren't sure exactly why it works, but reducing the flow of blood might be part of it. You can also try a frozen gel pack or a wash cloth that's been rinsed in cold water.

Over-the-Counter DrugsYou don't need a prescription to get painkillers called NSAIDs, like ibuprofen and naproxen. They cut down the inflammation that makes your head hurt. You can also buy migraine remedies that have a mix of acetaminophen and aspirin.

CaffeineIt's an ingredient in coffee and some other foods and drinks, and it may give you some mild relief. It could also help your body absorb some migraine drugs faster. But go easy. You can get dependent on your caffeine jolt, which can lead to withdrawal symptoms like fatigue and more headaches.

A Dark, Quiet RoomBright light and loud noises can make your headache worse. So find a spot away from the action and pull down the shades when you've got a migraine. It can help speed up your recovery.

ExerciseDon't try it when you're in the middle of a migraine attack, because it can make you hurt more. But when you feel well, a regular workout can prevent headaches. It makes your body release endorphins, chemicals that fight pain. It also eases stress and helps you sleep better.

MagnesiumYou find this mineral in dark-green veggies, whole grains, and nuts. It won't help while you're having a migraine, but some studies show it could prevent one. You can also take it in pill form, but always check with your doctor before you take supplements.

Sleep WellGet some regular shut-eye to help stave off migraines. Too little -- or too much -- can trigger headaches and lower your threshold for pain. Aim for 7 to 8 hours each night, and try to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day.

YogaExercise that gets your heart pumping can prevent migraines, but it can also be a headache trigger for some people. This activity, though, with its slower movements, is a safe alternative. Research shows that regular yoga sessions cut the number of attacks you get and make them less intense when they do happen.

Vitamin B2It's also called riboflavin, and you can find it in milk, cheese, fish, and chicken. You can also take it as a pill. Studies show it may help you prevent migraines

Manage Your TriggersYour migraines are sometimes set off by the food you eat or the conditions around you. Find out what brings on your pain and avoid it. Some common trouble spots on the menu are red wine, aged cheese, and cured meats. Bright lights, staying at a high altitude, and strong odors can also be issues.

ButterburPeople have used this plant for years to treat pain. Does it work to prevent migraines? When researchers looked at all the evidence, they found that taking the extract reduced the number and intensity of headaches for some people.

the above information was copied from WebMD and all rights belong to them